Michael Sam hits another rough patch…
Yesterday, the athlete announced via Twitter that he’s leaving football behind once again. This time to focus on some personal issues before diving head-first back into his career. “The last 12 months have been very difficult for me, to the point where I became concerned with my mental health. Because of this I am going to step away from the game at this time. I thank the Alouettes for this opportunity and hope to be back on the field soon,” he wrote.
Sam concluded by expressing his gratitude to all of his followers for their “understanding and support.”
In June, the former All-American asked for permission to leave the Montreal training camp for personal reasons, without publicly specifying the reason. Although the Alouettes released a statement that said the team would welcome Sam back with open arms should he decide he wants to return, they didn’t provide any clarity as to why he originally departed ways with the Canadian Football League to begin with. “The Montreal Alouettes fully respect Michael Sam’s decision and rally around him to offer him all time and support needed,” read the statement. “The team has left the door open and Michael is welcome to come back whenever he feels ready.”
Soon after, the team’s head coach Tom Higgins told reporters, “A lot of things happened and unfolded. That’s not to be discussed. We’re putting that behind us.”
Earlier this spring, Sam signed a two-year deal with the Alouettes. In 2014, he made headlines when he became the first openly gay player drafted by a team in the NFL.
